A DIY wood slice side table is the perfect project for those who love natural, rustic decor. This charming piece of furniture adds warmth and texture to any room, and it’s easy to make with just a few materials. Using a large wood slice as the tabletop and simple legs, you can create a beautiful side table that’s both functional and a conversation starter.
Here’s how to create your own wood slice side table.
Materials:
- Large wood slice (about 1-2 inches thick and 12-18 inches in diameter)
- Hairpin legs or wooden table legs (3 or 4, depending on your design)
- Sandpaper (coarse and fine grit) or an electric sander
- Clear wood sealant (polyurethane or epoxy)
- Wood screws (if using wooden legs)
- Drill
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Optional: stain or paint for the wood slice and legs
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wood Slice
- Choose the wood slice: Find a large wood slice with a flat surface and an interesting grain pattern. You can purchase pre-cut wood slices from craft stores or online, or if you have access to a fallen tree, you can cut your own.
- Sand the wood: Sand the top and bottom surfaces of the wood slice to smooth out any rough spots. Start with coarse-grit sandpaper and work your way to finer grits for a smooth finish. Pay special attention to the edges, which might need extra sanding depending on how rough the bark is.
- Seal the wood: Once the wood slice is sanded smooth, apply a clear wood sealant or polyurethane to protect the surface from moisture and wear. This will also bring out the natural beauty of the wood grain. Apply 2-3 coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before adding the next. If you want a more polished finish, you can use epoxy for a high-gloss look.
2. Attach the Table Legs
- Measure and mark the leg placement: Flip the wood slice over so the bottom is facing up. Use a measuring tape or ruler to evenly space where you’ll attach the legs. If you’re using three legs, mark them in a triangular pattern. If using four legs, mark them in a square or rectangle shape.
- Attach the legs: For hairpin legs, position the legs on the marked spots and screw them into place using the holes in the leg brackets. If you’re using wooden table legs, drill pilot holes in the marked spots and attach the legs with wood screws.
- Optional painting or staining: If you want to add a pop of color or match the legs to the rest of your decor, you can paint or stain the legs before attaching them.
3. Finishing Touches
- Check stability: Once the legs are securely attached, flip the table over and test it for stability. Adjust the legs if necessary to ensure the table is level and sturdy.
- Optional bark sealing: If your wood slice still has the bark attached, you can choose to leave it natural or seal it with a clear coat to prevent it from crumbling over time.
4. Decorate and Enjoy
- Place in your home: Your DIY wood slice side table is now ready to use! It’s perfect for placing next to a sofa, armchair, or bed to hold books, a lamp, or a cup of coffee.
- Add decor: You can decorate your new side table with plants, candles, or small decor items to personalize it and enhance the rustic charm.
Design Ideas:
- Minimalist Look: Keep the wood slice in its natural color and pair it with sleek metal hairpin legs for a modern, minimalist look.
- Rustic Farmhouse: Stain the wood slice a darker color and use chunky wooden legs for a more traditional, rustic vibe.
- Pop of Color: Paint the legs a bold color like black, white, or even a bright hue to add a fun twist to your side table.
Final Thoughts:
A DIY wood slice side table is a great way to bring a touch of nature into your home while creating a functional and stylish piece of furniture. Whether you keep it natural or add custom touches like paint or stain, this project is easy to customize to your personal style. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use natural materials to craft a beautiful, one-of-a-kind table that will be a conversation piece in any room.